THE BMW 2 Series is already offered in engaging M235i form but now there’s a full-house M badge version, complete with all the kudos and expectation that comes with it.

Seen as a spiritual successor to the limited-run 1 Series M Coupé, the M2 receives the customary level of M Division magic.

Outside there’s a tough-looking bodykit with pumped arches, air intakes, 19-inch sexy alloy wheels and the four tailpipes that make the M2 instantly recognisable as a M model . Under the bonnet there’s a more powerful version of the 3.0-litre single-turbo straight six linked to a six-speed manual or seven-speed DCT automatic, with uprated brakes, the electronic M differential and aluminium suspension components similar to those on the bigger M3.

The six-cylinder engine, utilising BMW’s M TwinPower Turbo technology, is in keeping with M tradition in that it offers rapid response for fab driving fun on a racing circuit, yet remains civilised in everyday use. And the delivery is accompanied with a distinctive engine sound.

Controlled aggression is the name of the game when it comes to BMW M cars and the compact shape of the 2 Series translates exceptionally well into full performance guise. Dark gloss elements to the grille and those gorgeous wheels mean a contrasting colour works well.

While the bigger M cars might be seen as the ultimate expression of the sub-brand, the M2 still has the looks and the cache that will give car enthusiasts a racing pulse. With a starting price of about £44,000, it’s also the least expensive way into an M car.

The three-door M2 offers the same cabin space as the standard 2 Series, which is reasonable for a car of this class. Up front, the sports seats offer excellent support, while rear legroom is good and the huge boot provides 390 litres of luggage space.

You get high specification navigation and audio systems, xenon headlights and BMW online services. The biggest option decision you’ll need to make is whether to choose the manual or M-DCT dual clutch transmission, but either way the M2 is a genuine M car for less than £50k.

There’s a definite sense of purpose when you’re behind the wheel of the M2, even with it in the Comfort setting. The ride is firm but rarely feels harsh and keeps the body well under control, while the easy torque of the turbo six makes short work of normal driving.

Get on the right kind of road and the M2’s real personality starts to come through. That effortless torque translates into strong acceleration right around the rev range, and with Sport mode engaged the throttle response is sharper and more of the engaging engine note comes through. A 0 to 62mph sprint can be despatched in 4.5 seconds but the there’s no massive turbo kick. Instead, you know there’s always acceleration available but never so much that it feels edgy. Furthermore, with M DCT fitted and Launch Control activated, the M2 completes the sprint in just 4.3 seconds

But what really marks out the M2 as a fine driver’s car is the handling balance. Unlike the more hooligan M4, the ratio of grip to power is just about perfect and together with the good grip balance between front and rear that inspires the confidence in tackling corners.

For sure, it will play the hooligan too when required, but for the most part this car is real-world fast, capable, controlled and ultimately on your side.

If your idea of a real sports car is a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive coupé then the M2 is a near-perfect introduction. Whether you’re already a dab hand behind the wheel or just moving up into a true performance car the M2 is sufficiently exciting to be great fun but not so fast that novices should be worried. It also has spades full of kerb appeal and that intoxicating engine noise to match.

AT A GLANCE

BMW M2

Price: From £42,800

Engine: Six-cylinder twin turbo 3.0-litre petrol, producing 370bhp

Transmission: Seven-speed M DCT automatic, or six-speed manual, driving rear wheels

Performance: 0 to 62mph in 4.3 seconds with M DCT gearbox (4.5 seconds with the six-speed manual gearbox); top speed limited to 155mph

Economy: 33.2mpg combined

CO2 emissions: 199g/km

THE LOWDOWN

Performance: *****

Economy: **

Ride/Handling: *****

Space/Practically: ***

Equipment: ****

Security/Safety: ****

Value For Money: ***

OVERALL: ****